Hawaii is a lengthy but entertaining epic drama featuring solid performances from its core cast including Richard Harris, Julie Andrews and Max von Sydow as well as a small early role by Gene Hackman (only his third feature film). The Blu-ray released through Twilight Time is rather basic with few bonus features but the audio and video transfers are both well done.

PLOT SYNOPSIS

Adapted from James Michener’s best-selling novel, Hawaii focuses on a critical period in Hawaiian history when missionaries (MAX VON SYDOW and JULIE ANDREWS), attempting to bring Christian values to the “pagan” islands, instead paved the way for corrupt and commercial Western ways.

SPECIAL FEATURES – 1.0/5

Along with the usual essay booklet, features include the Original Roadshow Version (3:08:56; SD) and the Original Theatrical Trailer (3:04; HD).

VIDEO – 3.75/5

Twilight Time releases Hawaii onto Blu-ray shown in its original 2.35 widescreen aspect ratio and for the most part is a fine transfer. Colors are generally deep and bold and the all around texture is heavy, almost saturated though I don’t think that’s any fault of the transfer but how the film naturally looked. I did notice some minor instances of dust marks throughout but nothing overly distracting.

AUDIO – 3.75/5

The disc comes with a nice if not standard DTS-HD Master Audio Mono track which provides for clear dialogue while other elements, like ambient and generally environmental sounds, gives off some limited depth, though nothing extraordinary or noteworthy. It’s a lossless track that I’m certain is a nice upgrade over any previous release.

OVERALL – 2.5/5

Overall, Hawaii is a lengthy but entertaining epic drama featuring solid performances from its core cast including Richard Harris, Julie Andrews and Max von Sydow as well as a small early role by Gene Hackman (only his third feature film). The Blu-ray released through Twilight Time is rather basic with few bonus features but the audio and video transfers are both well done.

Check out some more screen caps by going to page 2. Please note, these do contain spoilers.